Pope John Paul Community Room

Our multi-functional community room recalls the memory of two important church leaders of our time: Pope John Paul I, Albino Luciani -- one of the shortest serving Popes, (33 days), and Pope John Paul II, Karl Wojtyla - one of the longest to serve as leader of the Church, (26 years).

By honoring these two men by one room, we remind ourselves that it is not the quantity of our time of service that is important, but the quality and intensity.

Pope John Paul I won the hearts of all peoples as the “smiling” Pope. In just a short time, he was able to simplify the process of installing a pope, focus on the importance of right order in Church affairs, and captivate the world with his smile.

Pope John Paul II became the “traveling” Pope, visiting 129 countries in 104 trips outside the Vatican. In all his travels, he continually preached the gospel of life, encouraging peoples to solidarity. John Paul II established World Youth Day bringing the young people of the Church and the world together every two years to share their faith, learn from one another and their bishops, and to celebrate the sacraments of Reconciliation and Eucharist.

Community was at the heart of both of these men. As we gather to build community in this space, let our gathering be inspired by these two leaders of our Church.